Logic Pro X for Windows: these are your alternatives
Logic Pro X is a popular audio software for music production and home recording. Unfortunately, the sequencer is only intended for the Mac. To enjoy Logic as a Windows user, follow one of our tips.
The Logic Pro X problem from Windows users
Logic has long been offered for Mac only. The audio software can thus use the strengths of the Mac in a targeted manner:
- Logic is a "Digital Audio Workstation" (DAW), which was developed by the company Emagic in Hamburg. There were versions for Windows and Mac.
- Over time, Emagic decided to focus on the strengths of the Mac and not to offer any further versions of Logic for Windows.
- This controversial decision may be one reason for Logic's great success. Emagic's takeover by Apple certainly didn't hurt either.
Use logic on Windows
In order to use Logic on Windows, you are unfortunately forced to travel back in time:
- The last version of Logic that was still running on Windows was Logic 5.5.1. It is occasionally used on Ebay and with a little luck you can find it on eBay classifieds or one of the alternative classified advertising portals.
- This logic version of Emagic from 2002 runs stably from Windows 2000 and up to Windows XP (SP3).
- Compatibility mode or even Windows XP mode under Windows 10 are considered unstable.
- Most likely, the frustration of working with old operating systems and software is not worth the benefit. With a used MacBook you can enjoy Apple Logic Pro X.
- As a Windows user, you can also fall back on numerous alternatives, which we will introduce in the next section.
Windows-compatible alternatives to Logic Pro X
Logic Pro X is not out of competition. Windows-compatible software for music production and audio mixing also exists:
- The history of Steinberg Cubase is very closely intertwined with that of Emagic Logic. Both sequencers dominate the professional audio market. Cubase offers more options in the multi-channel area, but is comparatively expensive.
- Ableton Live is compatible with both Steinberg's VST and Apple's AU plug-ins. It also enables the use of Open Sound Control, which is particularly interesting for audio programmers and multimedia composers. However, Ableton is inferior in terms of recording and post-production logic.
- Avid's Pro Tools has become known as a hardware system for professional recording. Nowadays, the software offers a full DAW that doesn't have to hide from Logic Pro X either. Unfortunately, it is still not fully compatible with Windows 10.
- Propellerhead Reason is an attempt at an all-in-one solution that not only replaces Logic or Cubase itself, but also a large part of the plug-ins. The advantage is that you can get started quickly and in high quality. Unfortunately, there is no optimal compatibility with VST.
- Adobe Audition is especially useful for audio editing. In the MIDI range, it is inferior to Logic and Co. We offer numerous practical tips on Adobe Audition. Unfortunately, newer audition versions are only available as a subscription.
In another practical tip, we compare other software for producing music and for composing music for you. We also give you tips on what hardware a PC needs for music production.